Spinal Immobilization: Everything you know is Wrong

The following is a case that is likely familiar to anyone who works in the emergency department: An 85 year old female on her way to church tripped and fell from a standing height while stepping over the threshold of the church doorway. Due to her advanced age, she was slow getting to her feet, but otherwise has no complaints. A well-meaning bystander called 911 and she is convinced to be brought to the emergency room. She presents to the ED in full spinal immobilization, strapped to a paramedic backboard i